Inside America's Gyms

Having covered mixed martial arts full-time since2003, I’ve spent plenty of time in gyms, although that hasn’t helped my fight game much. I have visited the cavernous, 2,000-square-foot state of-the-art training centers, and I’ve been in the 200-square-foot non-air conditioned garages that technically can be called a “gym” because there happens to be a ring and mats present.

Both facilities have there own histories, allure, and stories.

The idea for me to travel throughout the country to explore the nation’s MMA gyms for HDNet came from Mark Cuban—as most brilliant ideas do—and I was excited to be able to chronicle what truly makes a gym special. Beyond the physical equipment, there is a spirit and soul to a true gym.

Inside MMA and FIGHT! Magazine will take you Inside America’s Gyms, previewing some of the finest gyms in the country. Tune in to HDNet for the rest of the story, and visitwww.hd.net/insidemma.html for more info.

• There is only one “facility” in the 11,000 square foot complex. “After 30 guys pump themselves up with protein shakes—it’s just gross.”—Forrest Griffin• Xtreme Couture offers discounts to servicemen and women.

What Separates XC From Everyone Else?

“This is Vegas, the epicenter for the sport. So we have a lot of the best fighters in the world who not only live here, but also travel through here.”—Randy Couture

• Grudge Training Center is in alliance with Jackson’s Submission Fighting in Albuquerque, New Mexico, exchanging fighters and knowledge.• There is a focus on family at Grudge. On any given day, fighters’ wives, girlfriends, and kids will be there hanging out.

What Separates Grudge From Everyone Else?

“All the fighters we bring in and all the coaches—that’s what separates us.”—Trevor Wittman